Pre-Columbian, Huari/Wari culture, Peru, ca. 6th to 9th century CE. An absolutely charming ceramic vessel in the form of a jaguar, its elongated body forming much of the vessel. A huge, conical spout rises from the tail area, and the body stands on four sturdy legs terminating in nub-like paws. The face is delightful, perkily tilted upward to gaze at the viewer, with huge, almond-shaped eyes and tall, rounded ears. The mouth is wide open in a full-toothed grin. The body has been dramatically painted, with red and grey spots outlined with thick, black lines covering much of its upper portion and a creamy white underbelly. The conical spout has geometric, pyramid-step-like motifs in white on red around it. The jaguar was symbolic of power and wildness, associated in ancient Peru with gods and kings. Size: 10" L x 3.5" W x 7.95" H (25.4 cm x 8.9 cm x 20.2 cm)

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-Edith Murray-Stein collection, New York, USA

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#134484

One ear has been repaired and restored from new clay. Tiny chip from rim. Otherwise in excellent condition, with most of its pigment remaining.